As we make our way through the first month of 2014, let's explore an Ecuadorian custom. Each December 31, Ecuadorians make a figure that represents the old year, in this case, 2013.
One can buy the figures and the masks along the street in special stands or also in the market.
Some of the masks represent well-known politicians or other celebrities.
This family had a Smurf on the top of their car.
People come out in droves to see the "años viejos" (old year figures) and to celebrate New Year's Eve.
Some children block the streets and ask for money or sweets.
Here is one of the figures.
Many men dress up as widows to ask passersby for money.
Here is one of the old year figures display, which can be quite elaborate. At midnight people burn the figures to demonstrate that the old year has passed, and the new has begun.
Last year our friends Chuck, Reneé, and Michael were visiting us here in Ecuador. We sure had fun celebrating with and being crazy with them.
This year our family celebrated with sparklers which we had bought last year. It was a bit challenging to light them!!!!
Then we watched a video together as a family. We made it almost to 12 but not quite! We must be getting old!
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